Page 67 of A Million Shades Of Love and Betrayal

"Mom, you didn't have to go to all this trouble," I said, touched by her effort.

"Nonsense, Yasmin. It's not every day my daughter gets married," she said, brushing off my concern. "Now, everyone, please sit down. Let's enjoy this meal together."

We took our seats around the table, the soft hum of the air conditioning a comforting background noise. The food looked amazing—roasted chicken, fresh vegetables, and a fragrant rice dish that made my mouth water.

"This looks delicious, Habibi," Dad said appreciatively as he sat down.

"Thank you, my love. I hope you all enjoy it," my mom replied, clearly pleased.

As we began to eat, the conversation flowed easily. Rafael's parents were eager to learn more about my family, and my mom was equally interested in them. I loved watching her interact with them, her genuine warmth made everyone feel at ease.

"So, Sarah," Carina said as she sipped her wine. "How long have you lived in this lovely house?"

"Oh, we've been here for almost twenty years," my mom replied. "Yasmin practically grew up in this neighborhood."

I smiled, memories flooding back. "Yeah, I remember playing in the park down the street and riding my bike around the block."

"Those were good times," my mom said, her eyes misting over slightly. "And now look at you, all grown up and about to be married."

Rafael chuckled, reaching for my hand under the table. "I'm lucky to have her," he said, squeezing my hand gently.

The warmth in the room was palpable, a blend of old memories and new connections forming before my eyes. We continued eating, the conversation touching on various topics—our jobs, Rafael's and my plans for the future, and even some funny stories from our childhoods.

After dinner, we moved to the living room, settling into the comfortable couches. My mom brought out a tray of coffee and tea, and we continued chatting late into the night. It felt so good to be home, surrounded by people I loved.

As the evening wore on, fatigue began to set in. My mom noticed and clapped her hands together. "Alright, everyone, I think you should get some rest. You've had a long day of traveling."

"Yes, that sounds like a good idea," Angelo agreed, stifling a yawn. "Thank you so much for the wonderful dinner and hospitality."

"It's my pleasure," my mom replied. "Goodnight, everyone. Sleep well."

Rafael and I made our way upstairs to my room. The room was just as I had left it, with its soft pastel walls and the quilt my grandmother had made draped over the bed.

"Home sweet home," I said, kicking off my shoes and flopping onto the bed.

Rafael sat down beside me, wrapping an arm around my shoulders. "Your mom is amazing, Yasmin. I can see where you get your charm from."

I leaned into him, feeling content. "I'm so glad you're here with me, Rafael."

He kissed my forehead. "There's no place I'd rather be."

We changed into our pajamas and climbed into bed, the day's events playing over in my mind. As I drifted off to sleep, I felt a deep sense of gratitude for this moment, for Rafael, and for the family that surrounded us.

I woke up with the sun streaming through the sheer curtains of my childhood bedroom. The familiar scent of jasmine from the garden below wafted in, filling the room with a nostalgic sweetness. Today would be busy, but I couldn't help the excitement that came with it. Rafael's mom, my mom, my sister, and I had a full schedule: checking out the wedding venue and then heading to the bridal store for my dress fitting.

As I stretched and got out of bed, I could hear the bustling sounds from the kitchen downstairs. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee and warm cinnamon rolls made my stomach growl. I quickly dressed in a comfortable sundress and made my way downstairs.

"Morning, sweetie!" my mom called out as I entered the kitchen. She was standing at the stove, flipping pancakes with practiced ease.

"Good morning, Mom," I replied, giving her a quick hug before grabbing a coffee mug. "Where's everyone else?"

"Amirah's still getting ready, and Rafael's mom should be here any minute," she said, glancing at the clock. "We need to leave soon if we're going to stay on schedule."

I nodded, sipping the hot coffee and letting it wake me up. Just then, Amirah bounded into the kitchen, her energy a stark contrast to my more laid-back demeanor.

"Morning, Yaz!" she chirped, grabbing a pancake from the stack on the counter. "Ready for today?"

"Absolutely," I replied, smiling at her enthusiasm. "It's going to be a long day, but I'm excited."

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